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Biology, A.S.

Overview

The Biology (AS) curriculum is for students with an interest and a desire to pursue an education and a career in the Biological Sciences. Its purpose is to enable students to transfer to an upper division college or university with junior status and the ability to complete a bachelor’s degree with two additional years of full-time study. The curriculum provides seamless transfer to SUNY institutions for students with a variety of specific interests in the Biological Sciences

The mission of NCCC includes offering high-quality academic programs leading to degrees while adhering to the principles of student-centeredness, accessibility, and comprehensiveness. The Biology, AS, program has the rigor expected of the lower-division student but in an atmosphere of support to ensure the success of students with varying levels of preparation. As a SUNY community college, NCCC offers the residents of Niagara County and the State of New York an affordable way to complete the first two years of a bachelor’s degree. A highlight of the Biology, AS, program is educational opportunities in areas where local business developments will have potential employment for graduates upon completion of the Bachelor’s degree.

The program is designed, with particular attention paid to the transfer mobility of graduates. The SUNY Transfer Path for Biology was used as a guide for the minimum degree requirements needed for the AS. As a result, NCCC offers the five tracks outlined in the Transfer Path. Also, the SUNY General Education Requirements are met by graduates upon completion of the AS degree.

Program Goals and Objectives

The Program Educational Goals are to provide:

A course of study which enables graduates to transfer seamlessly into four-year baccalaureate programs in Biology or a Biology-related discipline.

A core of mathematics and science courses suitable for continued coursework at the four-year level and in support of continued education or professional endeavors upon attainment of the baccalaureate degree.

Individualized advisement which will assist each student when developing their educational and career goals including transfer to an upper-division institution.

The primary Student Learning Outcomes are graduates will:

Demonstrate mastery of the core biological concepts which serve as the foundation for upper-division coursework in Biology. These concepts include evolution by natural selection, genetics (molecular, Mendelian, and population), biodiversity, cell structure and function, and bioenergetics.

Demonstrate the use of critical thinking and problem solving skills as they relate to the scientific method.

Apply the fundamental concepts of inorganic chemistry and organic chemistry to the structure and function of living organisms.

Demonstrate mastery of mathematics necessary for upper-division coursework in Biology.

Spotlight

The five tracks offered for the Biology program accommodate the varied interests and future plans of the individual student. They provide the opportunity to transfer to degree programs in specific subfields and specialties within the biological sciences.